Roman Carbonnieu owned vineyards in
Léognan in 1234, so at Carbonnieux they know a thing or two about making wine.
That sort of legacy shows in many fine, very solid wines made by the property
over the years. One of the best compliments I have in store for Château
Carbonnieux and its owners, the Perrin family, is that their wines are about as
consistent as great wines get. Simply put, in just about any vintage, Château
Carbonnieux (rouge or blanc, for that matter) rarely
disappoints; it may not reach the quality pinnacle of its appellation but
rarely brings up the rear. Even better, it is always very sensibly priced and
makes an especially good restaurant choice not just by the glass, but by the
bottle too (since ordering one isn’t going to put you in the poor farm).

The 1985 Château Carbonnieux Rouge is still a sexy, wine that is drinking beautifully.
The wine showcases the vintage’s telltale soft fruity charm, with still plump
red and black fruit aromas and flavors, suave tannins and outstanding length. The
noteworthy smoke, tobacco and cedar nuances are unmistakably Pessac-Léognan.
This beauty is still red in color, with a thin brick rim. Yet, it has more life
ahead, even though it is irresistible now and I see no need to defer
gratification. Drink up and enjoy, while your 2005s and 2010s Carbonnieux wines
mature in the cellar. 92/Drinking
Window: 2016-2020.